Acacia koaia

photo credit: Forest and Kim Starr

Best practices for survivability and field observations

Mixed reviews on survivability, especially in the coastal, sandy soil zone, with some recommendations for planting above 2,000 ft. While it is fast growing, it is at the same time combustible and flammable. Another mentions that it is best away from direct salt spray.  Some level of care is required in the first five years for the tree to become established and drought resistant. Several say it handles in the Koa’ia sanctuary on Kohala Mountain Road (in the wind) and does not need water once established. Cultural uses include the wood, dyes, and for ceremonial purposes.

Stressors and pests

Pests include fusarium wilt, scales (for example at Kealia Pond), black twig borer. Goats and deer will eat seedlings and younger plants.

Availability and propagation

Easy to grow from seed (although mixed reviews on availability) with an emphasis to source the seeds from respective locations. One respondent says that there are only two known populations on Oʻahu (no wild populations in the Wai‘anae range). Several mention that it can be grown from cuttings (although not easily).

Survey Results

For information about the survey, refer to our article: on Coastal Plants for Creating Green Breaks